This day in 1971: How IAF hit back after Pakistan’s pre-emptive strikes — watch rare footage

NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Wednesday recalled its response to Pakistan’s pre-emptive air strikes on this day in 1971 — December 3 — strikes that triggered a 14-day war culminating in a decisive Indian victory and the creation of Bangladesh.
"Following Pakistan's pre-emptive strike on 03 Dec 1971, the IAF responded with precision and fury," it posted on X.


“Through the night, Canberra crews flew 23 deep-strike missions, hitting enemy airfields at Murid, Mianwali, Sargodha, Chander, Risalewala, Shorkot and Masrur (Karachi). Runways were cratered, installations shattered, and the adversary’s early move was blunted within hours,” the IAF said.


The subsequent air–land operations also began with what the post described as a “thunderous reminder” of the IAF’s reach.

“AN-12s dropped forty-eight 500-lb bombs over Changa Manga, sparking a massive fire in the enemy’s supply camp,” it added.

On December 16, 1971, Pakistani forces commanded by Lieutenant General AAK Niazi surrendered to the Indian Army’s Lieutenant General JS Aurora — a capitulation involving 93,000 troops, the largest surrender since World War II.

The day is celebrated as "Vijay Diwas" (Victory Day) in both India and Bangladesh.

However, relations between them have grown strained following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina as Bangladesh's prime minister in August 2024. Hasina has been staying in Delhi since her removal.

In contrast, ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh — which were one country until 1971, though separated geographically by India — have improved significantly under the caretaker administration of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka.

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